AS SUMMER officially begins for school children, so do Torfaen’s Open Access Play Schemes.

Beginning July 30 and running until August 23, the council-run summer schemes look to empower children and young people, encouraging engagement in a wide variety of play activities in a safe environment.

The provision provides staffed play opportunities for children in the absence of parents.

Children have the freedom of choice as to what range of play activity they wish to undertake and with whom they play, however if a child does not wish to stay parents will be asked to collect them.

Attendees at Torfaen play schemes this summer will benefit from free healthy snacks and a ‘daily mile’ as part of a campaign to increase physical activity and wellbeing in young people.

The initiative is being funded by Pontypool Community Council and will see over 2,000 children receiving free healthy meals each day.

Along with the free healthy snacks, the children and young people engaged in the playschemes will be encouraged to participate in the daily mile each day, as well as take part in activities which encourage physical activity and positive wellbeing.

Torfaen executive member for children and young people, Councillor Mandy Owen, said: “Torfaen playschemes provides children with memorable play experiences and presents activities that children may not have already had the chance to take part in.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for parents and carers to bring their children along to participate in play, learn a new skill and make new friends.

“The summer play schemes go from strength to strength each year and the many volunteers do such a fantastic job in coordinating play activities across the borough, creating a friendly and welcoming environment for all children.

“Yet again it looks to be another successful year in play.

Julian Davenne, Torfaen play service manager, said: “This is a great new initiative that Torfaen are offering working in partnership with the Community Councils to make it possible to support the wellbeing for children across Torfaen”.